The new machine is powered by a Tier 4 Final Cat C9.3 ACERT delivering 215 horsepower (253 gross). The engine is now paired with a fully automatic, four-speed, power-shift transmission with an integral lock-up clutch. Cat says the new transmission is capable of reducing fuel use by up to 20 percent in heavy work and up to 30 percent in light work and finish grading applications.
Operation with this new automatic transmission is as simple as setting the ground speed. From there the transmission chooses the gear and engine speed that are most efficient for current operating conditions.
For smoother shifting and in order to maintain power to the ground during load changes, the transmission adds a gear between the first and second ranges. Cat says this added gear also allows the machine to “remain in the most efficient mode” for longer periods of time.
Cat says the effect of this new transmission is “an aggressive feel in the dirt,” while boosting productivity by 2.5 percent.
